Laser Spark Plugs?

[BilgeRat]

Interesting article from physics.org; the claim is a much leaner mixture can be run with laser igniters, and that they're closer to being viable. I can remember when the laser was called "the solution in search of a problem".

http://phys.org/news/2011-04-laser-revolution-internal-combustion.html

 

[JEBar]

here is an updated 2014 press release ===> http://contest.techbriefs.com/2014/entries/automotive-transportation/4259 <==== development seems to still be underway .... it seems that the concept is proven but no commercial system is available

Jim

 

[W. WIllie]

With every mfg. going to IRIDIUM type plugs and capable ignition systems of igniting at an AF ratio of 22.4-1 and lasting over 100K miles, WHY CHANGE?

Willie

 

[BilgeRat]

Willie,
This is from the Tech Notes blog; they make good points. Especially the last one; there's NO way that can be done currently.

Why Laser Ignition....
Regulations on NOx emissions are pushing us toward leaner air/fuel ratios (higher ratio of air to fuel).

These leaner air/fuel ratios are harder to ignite and require higher ignition energies. Spark plugs can ignite leaner fuel mixtures, but only by increasing spark energy. Unfortunately, these high voltages erode spark plug electrodes so fast, the solution is not economical. By contrast, lasers, which ignite the air-fuel mixture with concentrated optical energy, have no electrodes and are not affected.

Natural gas is more difficult to ignite than gasoline dueto the strong carbon to hydrogen bond energy.

Lasers are monochromatic, so it will be much easier to ignite natural gases and direct the laser beam to an optimal ignition location.

Because of the requirement for an increase in ignition energy, spark plug life will decrease for natural gas engines.

Laser spark plug ignition system will require less power than traditional spark plugs, therefore outlasting spark plugs.

Ignition sites for spark plugs are at a fixed location at the top of the combustion chamber that only allows for ignition of the air/fuel mixture closest to them.

Lasers can be focused and split into multiple beams to give multiple ignition points, which means it can give a far better chance of ignition.